In response to an increase in wildfire intensity, duration and frequency increases, The Wildland Detection System provides rapid and dependable detection of wildfires through visible range optical cameras. The system is compatible with IP, analog and previously installed cameras.

Since smoke is often the first visible indication of a wildfire, trees and other topographical factors can obscure the flames until the fire has grown and can which may be to late to control. Rapid detection, in the first 5 to 15 minutes, can allow the fire to be extinguished 0quickly and with moderate equipment and personnel deployment. High functioning optical fire detection systems like WDS can avert these situations by meeting the rapid detection requirements required by most fire fighting organizations with these system properties:

WDS is an early smoke detection program based on a proprietary mathematical analysis (algorithm) of streaming video including precise forground-background identification ability. The system continuously progresses through the multiple steps required in the detection process.

The monitoring system includes video cameras installed on detection towers or other vantage points collecting a video stream from each camera which is sent to the control center, typically via wireless microwave connections. The system is configured as a local area network with up to 16 camera feeds each covering 10 Kilometer range (300 sq kilometer coverage) monitored simultaneously at the coordinating WLSD Surveillance Center.

The system analyses and evaluates the image, reducing it to its mathematical components. This provides the capability to identify each image micro component including smoke edge and movement. Analysis of successive images provides for identification of wildfire smoke and the differentiation from other similar images.

Once the smoke detection is confirmed by the system, an audible and visual alarm is issued. The operator is able to examine the alert area by manual control, decide the appropriate response, issue notifications and/or dispatch suppression resources. While the system can be programmed to issue automatic notifications to remote individuals or systems, the final alarm/dispatch disposition is reserved for the operator.